Ten Christmas Songs, Gifts and Vacation Spots for Anytime of the Year

T’is the Season to Be Jolly with Popular Christmas Songs

Shopping bags, credit cards, Christmas wrappers, glittering Christmas trees and crowded places are now all over the place. As chaotic and rowdy as it may seem, the Christmas Season still brings back delightful memories from the smell of hot chocolate, the warmth of love shown by family and friends, the loud, boisterous and cheerful greetings of your not so friendly neighborhood that had a sudden change of heart, who, much to your surprise suddenly appears at your front door with a shiny bright smile, holding a bowl of fresh baked salad or a fine red wine covered in costly velvet paper and greets you with a booming “Merry Christmas!”.

Then as you step out on the streets, blaring radios with upbeat sounds of the latest Christmas Songs could be heard. If you love music and is eager to know which albums of popular Christmas melodies you could listen to and play while celebrating this once-a-year event, then here are some of the top most wanted Christmas songs for your taste and enjoyment. Nothing beats having inspirational songs to encourage and strengthen one’s resolve to live life to the fullest.

SONGS FOR THE SOUL

Why not serenade your dearest on Christmas Eve with this lovely and alluring song by Mariah Carey and dance to its beat. This was written and produced by the singer herself and composed by Walter Afanasieff which was released by Columbia Records in November of 1994. The song’s lyrics describe that the material things bought during such holiday season doesn’t matter and that what is mostly important is the fact that one is loved and kept safe by the people who have always been there for you through thick and thin.

*All I Want for Christmas is You by Mariah Carey

Putting up a Christmas tree is one of the highlights during this season of remembrance of the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree was written by Johnny Marks and sang by Brenda Lee in the year 1958. Lee was only 13 years old when she recorded said music and the song has served as a musical scoring in the television special “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”. It was again selected to be played in the 1990 movie entitled “Home Alone” where Kevin McCallister, the lead actor, pretended that a party was taking place in their home just so he could prevent robbers from entering. So while you’re at it, sway to this rocking song of all times:

*Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree by Brenda Lee

Christmas is not complete in the absence of food such as spaghetti, macaroni, fried chicken, turkey, pancit (in the Philippines), ice cream and all kinds of sweets and delicious processed food. So in the process of preparing your delightful dish for your visitors, turn the radio on and play the cd of Nat King Cole.

A brief background of this song will help you appreciate it more. Did you know that it was actually subtitled, “ChestnutsRoasting on an Open Fire” or “Merry Christmas to You”? It was written in 1945 by Bob Wells and Mel Torme and it became a massive hit on the pop and r&b charts and is still streaming worldwide in the present era. Would you believe that the song was written during a blistering hot summer and not during winter? Bob just wanted to imagine it was winter and cool off the heat not knowing that later on in time, his music would make waves in the recording industry and sang in almost every part of the world.

*The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas to You) by Nat King Cole

On the other hand, if you’re feeling kind of blue because you’re missing a loved one who’s no longer with you, the voice of singer Burl Ives will help diminish the sadness away as you reminisce the good times with departed friends and families and share the kindness and love that they left as their legacy for you to spread the good tidings this year. With Burl Ives as the lead vocals and Owen Bradley as director of chorus and orchestra, the song has brought more people into the spirit of Christmas cheer over the past years. Recorded and first sang in the year 1965 of October, this album is still good as new to the listeners and hearers and has worked its wonders through time.

*A Holly Jolly Christmas by Burl Ives ft Owen Bradley and Orchestra

Mary Did You Know Music

Stage plays and theatrical dramas are performed in the month of December all over the continents with the mission to role play the lives of the Blessed and Divine family, the sole purpose of which is to remind the audience that this Season is not celebrated without cause, that one day, years ago, a baby was born in Bethlehem with the name of JESUS and that he will bring hope into the world. This song best explains the story of the miraculous birth of Christ and the rendition of this song will give you the goosebumps for its excellent and powerful vocals. It is the sixth track in the group’s album. “That’s Christmas to Me” and has peaked at top number 26 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the year December 2014. It was originally written by Mark Lowry and Buddy Greene and originally recorded by Christian singer, Michael English in 1991.

*Mary, Did You Know by Pentatonix

Time and again, as we grew older we have heard the song “Jingle Bells” played over and over in the airwaves. However, Bobby Helms made a whole new version out of the music which has a more rhythmic and stronger organization of sounds coupled with additional accompaniments that resulted into a sophisticated and awesome song. Here’s a video so you could verify the truth and enjoy the Holidays with a Bang.

*Jingle Bell Rock by Bobby Helms

Ofcourse, most institutions and corporations organize either small or huge Christmas parties to distribute rewards or bonuses that the employees and workers deserve for a whole year of work and exquisite performance that has added to the company’s increase of revenue. And what better way to celebrate the same with this Christmas album sang by Jose Feliciano and was released in the year 1970, and later on was reissued on cd in 2001. This title has been downloaded by millions of listeners over the net and is clearly known to be one of the most wanted Christmas Song List. So as you play trip to Jerusalem during the party, go ahead and let the DJ play this song. What a blast!

*Feliz Navidad by Jose Feliciano

Let It Snow DVD

In the Asia Pacific, there is no snow nor winter breeze, but at times people imagine experiencing having the same, if only possible, with the geographic state that these countries are a part of. Wittingly, we buy snow globes and watch movies with men and women wearing fancy winter clothes just to understand how it feels to be underneath a sky with snowflakes falling. Despite the fact that countries outside of USA do not have this kind of weather in their abode, the music “Let it Snow” by Martin has reached the South Pacific Airwaves, with millions of people singing to its beat “let it snow, let it snow, let it snow”.

The song was written during a heat wave as Sammy Cahn and Jule Styne, writers and composers, desired for a cooler weather. It has been sang in different versions by well known singers such as Carly Simon, Kylie Minogue, Rod Stewart and Kim Wilde. So here it is, let’s all hear it one more time:

*Let it Snow by Dean Martin

Some people love to celebrate Christmas with a loud noise while others find it more relaxing and meaningful to enjoy this Season by doing the things they love to do on their own like reading a book beside a fireplace, listening to classical music while eating his favorite dish or delicacy and by resting while tinkering on a favorite hobby. If this is your style then Bing Crosby’s voice would be your best companion as he sings White Christmas.

*White Christmas by Bing Crosby

A lot of people mostly kids would agree with the song sang by Andy Williams that Christmas is The Most Wonderful time of the Year. Whatever the reasons may be for thinking the same, may it be because of the gifts to be given and received, the food, the camaraderie of family and friends where they meet only once a year and on this occasion, the beach resorts or vacation sites to visit, or maybe due to the colorful and lively art works displayed in shops and residential houses or even buildings, the spirit of love and sharing makes this month different from all the others. It’s like a reward for a long year full of sacrifices and loads of work.

This popular Christmas song was written in 1963 by Edward Pola and George Wyle, sang by Andy Williams on the same year. The song focuses on gatherings during this season between friends and families, sledding for children in the USA, kissing under the mistletoe, cooking marshmallows while sharing stories of Christmas past and singing Christmas Carols.

*It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year by Andy Williams

Give Love on Christmas Day with These Colorful and Exciting Do-it-yourself (diy) Precious and yet Thrifty Gifts

Every year, from one generation to another, the whole worldgoes into a trance of contagious and exciting travel plans, hectic schedules and a must-do- list of gift giving, charity or good old chores of cooking and filling the dinner table with the best and exquisite fine dining plates ever produced by an enthusiastic mom or a carefree grandmother. Bonuses and 13th month pays are distributed to every thriving private company or government organization, the corporate departments, business industry, media accolades and every enterprise in leading countries as well as in third world zones. It’s like someone pushed the button and everyone went from being in a stealth mode to hyper active once the “BER” months kick in. Even Hollywood Superstars and diplomats of different states spend this month probably in the most spectacular and fabulous way. Almost everybody are in their high spirits. Now, out in the market are the most wanted, cost-friendly and affordable gifts that could be bought and given to your dearly loved ones. However, for a lesser price, here are some Do-It-Yourself gifts that one could work out in the very comforts of their home.

Homemade Gift Mugs

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Your loved ones will enjoy drinking their cup of coffee with this cool mug. | Source

DIY Mason Jars

What’s amazing with this gift is your recipient could put in just about anything in this jar, from strawberry jam into candies and even sugar or coffee. With its stylish cover and ribbon, your loved one is sure to fall in love for this DIY surprise! | Source

DIY Book Organizer

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This one is up for grabs, unique and seldom seen in the markets, it will be a splendid gift for book lovers and organized people who love to see their stuff in order. | Source

DIY Family Keychains

Now you can keep your family close to your heart wherever you go with this cute and customized keychain with pictures of your family. It’s easy to do and guaranteed to put a smile to the person to whom you’ll be giving this DIY Christmas item. | Source

Stuffed Animals from Kids Drawings

The perfect gift for your kids is here! Colorful and soft, who wouldn’t want to cuddle this soft stuffed animals that are quiet easy to do while at the same time gave fun. | Source

Christmas Book

Saying “merry Christmas and a Happy New Year” in Different Languages

Now, let’s put things in the right perspective, better yet let’s all, for just a bit second, deepen our thinking. Let’s ask that million dollar question, “What is Christmas all about?” We’ve been asked the same words for centuries but let me ask you again, “Can we celebrate Christmas even if we are broke, or in the middle of a war infested area, or in the slums waiting for volunteers to give us their Christmas Cheers?” “Can we?” We’ve seen news of men and women in their soldier uniforms assigned to battlefronts, in danger zones, dodging darts and bullets, not being able to celebrate good tidings with family and friends. Officers in blue or the police force seldom take a leave during holidays because they have to stand their post and continue in fighting crime. Let’s put some direction in this celebration, shall we? And for the meantime, why not try greeting your friends all over the world with a Merry Christmas in their own languages to make them feel that you remember them and have taken the time to show a little love, care and concern.

The Golden Hourglass, Hot Spots to Visit

Got any plans this December 2015? You thought I’d never ask. Maybe the idea has not yet crossed your mind and this article is making you fidget in your seat. You’re not really that Old Scrooge type who basically steams out, fists raised in the air, hating every nook and cranny that this season brings, either you’re just not into it thinking that it’s no different from June nor August and there’s nothing special about this month thus why are we making such a big fuss over it anyway?

As some of us are in the habit of completing our shopping itineraries, that new kitchen utensil that we’ve been saving up for months, the latest gizmo in town with the new specs produced by MAC, that Nike shoes that every boy desires, that black dress before someone buys it from the stand, or the latest Eclipse with its high powered engine, before we all forget, there is an invisible hourglass and the sands of time are falling beyond our grasp.

We could make this Christmas a month to remember as opposed to all the times we have celebrated it. It’s up to us to decide what is of value that could last an imprint in someone’s life but that is only happening when we are willing to walk an extra mile, get out of our comfort zones, stop playing politician and just get down into the business of bringing good cheer without expecting anything in return. Here’s a list of the top spots that most people visit during this holiday break. Why not go someplace different, out of the ordinary and bring your families and friends to a destination that they could not forget all throughout their lifetime. The choice is yours to make.

Hongkong Disneyland

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They offer fun rides and gifts of your choice as a token of remembrance of your unforgettable experience in the park. What a fantastic way to celebrate Christmas with your family and friends! | Source

Singapore

Most travelers choose to visit this country by reason of it scenic beauty and amazing sites. Why not travel this Season to Singapore and visit all of its awesome places for a one-of-a-kind experience. | Source

Boracay Philippines

The Filipino people are proud of this fabulous beach resort where you could see the beauty of creation, relax and rejuvenate from the stress of working the whole year round. Cultural gifts are available so you could bring it to your friends and loved | Source

Eiffel Tower of Paris

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The city of love never stops being an inspiring and wondrous site of attraction not only to lovers but families from all around the globe. The city of lights could be your perfect destination this Christmas break. | Source

New York

The busy streets of New York, the flashing lights and the buzz of the busy streets, the grand get-aways and cool clothes, gadgets and toys to buy are but a few of the exquisite surprises in New York. | Source

Reaching Through the Tides

Before we all rush into the busyness of everybody else’s agenda, we might as well sit back, and think for a moment or perhaps write a note that “Someone out there may not be having the good health that we have, the cash to buy a new pair of shoes, the smile because they’ve recently experienced a loss of a dear relative”. We may not be going through the pain that they feel but we could respect it and be a source of strength and encouragement this Season. We may go beyond borders by reaching to men and women of different race and color, a note or two, a simple handshake, a resounding Christmas greeting, a smile could make such a difference to a world of suffering people. You and I could be that difference. “Life is a series of choices and not of chances”.

And yet you ask, how could I be of help? I am but just an ordinary guy with ordinary goals and dreams who likes to watch dvds all day, eat Oreos and go for a quiet walk in the park at noon. Well, have we all forgotten that, it’s the ordinary things that make it extraordinaire? A simple act of kindness could be of great importance to someone in dire need. So remember, when you buy that shiny black dress on the stand, or that latest and most updated MAC Laptop, it wouldn’t hurt to also give a little of yourself to those who you think you could inspire a little.

Comments

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Hannah Guinao-wa 19 months agofrom Rizal Philippines

Thank you Aesta1! Yes indeed the celebration of Christmas here in the Philippines is rich with cultural highlights such as the noche buena, sambang madaling araw and the Christmas lanterns (parol). Hope you could come and visit us again one day!

Author

Hannah Guinao-wa 19 months agofrom Rizal Philippines

Thank you Aesta1! Yes indeed our culture is rich with many highlights during Christmas like the noche buena, sambang madaling araw and display of Christmas lanterns (parol). Hope you could come and visit us again one day!

Mary Norton 19 months agofrom Ontario, Canada

Welcome to HP. I was nor in the Philippines but now live in Canada. I know how much we love Christmas over there.

Author

Hannah Guinao-wa 20 months agofrom Rizal Philippines

Thank you so much Reynold Jay for the positive feedback! You are so encouraging. I would love to know more about hubpages and write more articles that could inspire our co-hubbers. I followed you and am excited to read more of your amazing works! Keep on writing!

Reynold Jay 20 months agofrom Saginaw, Michigan

I must say this is a ton better than my first HUB!!! Yep--you have lots of music videos, and pictures that I knew little about! This should get everyone in the mood with all the cheer that you have here. Well done, Hanna. I already look forward to another one soon.